How to Lift and Store Gladiolus Corms in South Africa

How to Lift and Store Gladiolus Corms in South Africa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Gladiolus flowers, with their tall, vibrant spikes, are a favourite among South African gardeners. To ensure healthy blooms year after year, knowing how and when to lift and store your gladiolus corms is essential. Here’s your ultimate guide specifically tailored for South African conditions.

When to Lift Gladiolus Corms in South Africa

The ideal time for lifting gladiolus corms in South Africa is mid-winter (July-August). Look for these signs:

• Foliage turning yellow or brown after flowering.
• Leaves beginning to dry and die back naturally.

Allowing foliage to die back ensures nutrients have returned to the corm, strengthening it for the next blooming season.

Step-by-Step Guide to Lifting Gladiolus Corms

Step 1: Trimming Foliage

Cut back the foliage to about 5-10 cm above ground level once the leaves have fully yellowed or browned.

Step 2: Carefully Digging

Use a garden fork or spade, gently loosening the soil around the corms, being careful not to damage them.

Step 3: Cleaning the Corms

Remove excess soil gently by hand or rinse lightly under water. Allow the corms to air dry in a shaded, ventilated space for a few days.

Step 4: Inspect and Cure

Examine corms for signs of disease or damage, discarding any unhealthy ones. Let healthy corms cure in a cool, dry place to toughen their outer skins.

Step 5: Proper Storage Techniques

Store your gladiolus corms in breathable bags or containers filled with dry peat moss, sawdust, or newspaper. Store them in a dark, cool place (ideally 5-10°C), checking periodically for signs of rot or drying out.

Tips for South African Climate Variations

• In frost-free coastal regions, corms may survive in-ground year-round but lifting can help protect them from pests and unpredictable weather.
• In colder, inland regions, lifting corms is essential to avoid frost damage and ensure continued flowering.

Planting Again Next Season

Replant your gladiolus corms from September to November, spacing them adequately for optimal growth and blooming.

By following this guide, you ensure beautiful gladiolus blooms season after season in your South African garden. Happy gardening!